Why are men still underrepresented in social work, and what do they contribute to the profession?
Although there are more than 6,500 registered social workers in Northern Ireland, approximately 85% are women. In this episode, the panel explores the reasons behind this gender imbalance and challenges common assumptions about caring professions.
The final episode of the Care to chat? series also showcases the wide range of career opportunities available within social work, including roles in health and social care, justice, education, early intervention, and community and voluntary sectors.
Joining our host Dr Wendy Austin MBE for the discussion are Dr James Todd, Deputy Head of Service and Lead Approved Social Worker, Southern Health and Social Care Trust, Michael Warren, Manager, Extern, Stuart Plant, Probation Officer, Probation Board for Northern Ireland, Paul Campbell, Open University student and Senior Therapy Assistant, Children’s Services, Southern Health and Social Care Trust and Cian Roberts, social work student at Open University on placement with the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust.
Drawing on their own experiences, the panel members discuss what attracted them to social work, the importance of diversity within teams, and the valuable role male social workers can play as positive influences in the lives of individuals, families, and communities. They reflect on the unique perspectives men can bring to the profession while supporting people through some of life’s most difficult challenges.
The conversation also highlights the different routes into social work, from university-based study to work-based pathways, and explores why the profession continues to offer a fulfilling and varied career.
Breaking down the myths of why social work is not a career for males is important to Stuart who believes it’s quite the opposite.
“If we look at the myths around social work, historically it would have been seen as being related to childcare and stereotypes would say that’s a female role. But if you want to flip that on its head, for me, there’s nothing more rewarding or challenging than social justice”.
“You’re supporting individuals, you’re standing up for their rights, you’re wanting to change the system, or you’re helping somebody else support themselves and become more independent. That debunks that myth and challenges that toxic masculinity”
‘Care to chat’ releases a new episode every fortnight, discussing current topics about social care and social work regulation in Northern Ireland. Listen to ‘Care to chat’ wherever you find your favourite podcasts including Apple, Spotify, or on our website at: niscc.info/care-to-chat-podcast.
Episode 10: Men in social work (46 minutes)
For more information
As the Care to chat podcasts are designed with the social care and social work workforce in mind, we would like to invite suggestions of topics that our listeners would be interested to hear covered. If you have questions, suggestions or feedback about the podcast, email: comms@niscc.hscni.net.